Can we break the cosmic speed limit to journey through time? We asked four physics and astrophysics experts to evaluate this popular sci-fi concept. From university professors to research scientists, these specialists examine whether faster-than-light travel could enable time travel as depicted in countless movies and books. Their evidence-based perspectives cut through speculation to reveal what modern physics actually tells us about the relationship between speed, light, and time.Antonija Grubisic-Cabo has answered Extremely UnlikelyAn expert from Monash University in Physics, Materials ScienceIt is not possible for matter to travel faster than the speed of light (speed of light is speed limit of the universe).

The possibility of time travel has excited many of us for hundreds of years, inspiring countless books and films. The ability to move not only through space, but into the past or future, would open a myriad of possibilities for humankind. But is it theoretically even possible to time travel? In the original 1978 Superman film, Superman goes back in time by flying around the globe faster than the speed of light. This is incredibly fast – the speed of light is just under 300,000 km per second! So far, we have not come even close to this speed, the fastest man made object, a space probe, travelled at just 150 km per second. Given the right technological advancements, is it theoretically possible for us to travel faster than the speed of light, and thus, like superman, travel in time? We asked 6 experts in astrophysics, astronomy and physics, ‘Is it possible to time travel by going faster than the speed of light?’, here is what we found. This consensus is based on 6 experts answers from this question: Is it possible to time travel by going faster than the speed of light?Do we experience time differently when we are travelling at speed?Einstein’s theory of relativity determines that time is not universal – it is relative. The 1971 Hafele-Keating experiment found that a clock that was flown on an airplane travelling at speed fell behind clocks that remained on the ground. More recently, precise atomic clocks have been found to run at different speeds when one is moved relative to the other. This phenomenon is called ‘time dilation’.Dr Sean Matt, an expert in astronomy and astrophysics from Exeter University in the UK says “if one travels close to the speed of light, time behaves differently than we are used to, and in this way, one can move forward in time faster than those left behind. So it is theoretically possible to travel to the future, but one could not return.”

Check out this answer from Consensus:Based on the current scientific understanding, it is not feasible for a planet to be flat. Gravitational forces naturally shape planets into spheres, and while rotation can cause some flattening, it is not enough to result in a flat shape. Theoretical models and observational data consistently support the spherical nature of celestial bodies.The concept of a flat planet is often discussed in popular culture and pseudoscience, but it is important to examine this idea through the lens of scientific research. The shape of celestial bodies, including planets, is determined by a variety of factors such as gravity, rotation, and internal dynamics. This synthesis will explore the feasibility of a flat planet based on current scientific understanding.Key Insights

Check out this answer from Consensus:While the concept of a perfect vacuum is useful in theoretical discussions, it is not achievable in practice. Quantum theory and practical limitations ensure that some matter or energy will always be present in any given space. Therefore, space is not a perfect vacuum.The concept of a perfect vacuum, a space entirely devoid of matter, has been a subject of scientific inquiry and philosophical debate for centuries. While the term "vacuum" is often used to describe spaces with significantly lower pressure than atmospheric pressure, the idea of achieving a perfect vacuum remains theoretical.Key Insights

Check out this answer from Consensus:The Many-Worlds Interpretation of quantum mechanics presents a radical yet compelling view of reality. Its theoretical foundations and practical implications, particularly in quantum computation, make it a strong contender among quantum interpretations. However, the lack of experimental evidence and unresolved issues like the problem of probability continue to challenge its acceptance. Whether MWI is the best interpretation remains an open question, but it undoubtedly provides a fascinating framework for understanding the quantum world.The interpretation of quantum mechanics has been a subject of intense debate since the inception of the theory. Among the various interpretations, the Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) has garnered significant attention. This article explores whether MWI is the best interpretation of quantum mechanics by examining its theoretical foundations, practical implications, and the criticisms it faces.Theoretical Foundations of Many-Worlds Interpretation

Check out this answer from Consensus:The research suggests that the future is not fixed but is shaped by human actions and decisions. While technological advancements indicate that elements of the future are already present, the distribution of these advancements is uneven. Effective planning and a focus on alternative futures can help navigate the uncertainties and create a more equitable and sustainable world.The question of whether the future is already determined is a profound one, touching on aspects of philosophy, science, and practical forecasting. Various research papers have explored this topic from different angles, providing insights into the predictability of the future and the role of human agency in shaping it.Key Insights